The purpose of this blog is to share my art, techniques, and what I'm up to (art related).

Thursday, April 14, 2016

Challenge 263 and The Sunny Window

Challenge #263

It's been quite a while since I have posted and participated in the challenge. Life gets so busy at times that when you need it the most you don't even get a chance to relax and create.This week's challenge (here) was quite fun... even though I just saw it today, I just had to do it :). I'm not thrilled with it, but since it is the first I have created in weeks, it will have to do. I still had fun, so that's what's important.

The Sunny Window

In our bedroom we have a wall of windows; I absolutely love them as I love light. The only problem is that the semi-circular window lets in a lot of light as it does not have a shade.

So, I have been thinking about what I could do to block some of the light, but not too much. Here is my solution - window art made with used tea bags, and lightly painted with Inktense. We will see if it will last :) If not, then at least I loved using recycled materials.

2 layers of tea bags (one horizontal, another vertical) on top of freezer paper. I used about 1/2 of Mod Podge mixed with 1/2 of water.

While the tea bags were drying, I drew the design on a large piece of paper.

Added the design to the tea bags.

Went over the design with 3-D paint.

And this is what it looks like at this point when you turn it towards the light.

Then I painted the different shapes in yellow, green, and blue tones of Inktense.

This is what it looks like against the dark floor...

... and here held up against the light.

Here is the window now with the sun hitting it. The colors sort of disappear in the sun, but at night they are quite visible. I will leave them as is for now; can always add more color later if I want :)

Of course, now I want to try small pieces, and experiment with other materials sandwiched between the teabags. Lots of ideas, just need to find the time :)

About Me

Draw… carve… print… print some more… play with the prints. This is the fun process I use to create my art.
I create hand-carved blocks which I use as a starting point for my art. I then play with each print and make it unique – either by adding other colors, pen and ink work, or a combination of different materials until I’m satisfied with the results. Each piece is unique and imperfect – playing with the imperfections and making them an integral part of the piece is a challenge I thoroughly enjoy.
I am inspired by nature; architectural features like ironwork, doors and windows; interesting shapes, textures, patterns, and yes… even math/geometry.
I’m currently designing, carving, and printing tessellations that range from abstracts, flowers, and leaves, to interesting creatures and animals – like birds, whales, and ducks.
I hope you enjoy my art as much as I enjoy creating it.